Page 52 - Rural Voice III - Responding to a Pandemic

Ubuntu workshop and clothing distribution
Food parcels distributed
236
COVID grant funding given to LDA’s
R 50 000
PPE distributed
540
The restrictions with transport meant people had difficulty collecting their SASSA grants on a monthly basis, and in certain areas the farm gates were closed, so we had to engage the employers to allow people to get out to buy food. The elderly were very fearful of standing in long SASSA queues, after hearing about people dying of COVID-19 and knowing that they were vulnerable to infection.
A lot of mental health issues escalated, like stress, depression and worry. We monitored a few of the SASSA points, to ensure people in long lines had access to water and sanitation. We also organised for people with special needs and disabilities to go to the front.
Gender-based violence increased, because women were trapped at home with their abusers. We contacted the police, and encouraged women to file protection orders. We also assisted women to get into shelters with their children.
sTaying sTrong Through seed planTing and self-care
Our organisation had a few people with COVID, and one person’s family member passed away. We provided education around the Coronavirus, on how people can protect themselves and use indigenous herbs as medicine. We used cayenne pepper, lemon, garlic and ginger, to boost our immune systems. We planted two gardens in Elsenburg, and in Klapmuts.
On Heritage Day, we brought 50 women together from different farms and areas, while practicing social distancing. We spoke about reclaiming the power of the seed and food sovereignty – the importance of knowing you have access to affordable and nutritious food. As we are involved in climate change issues, we gave seeds and a Spekboom, an excellent carbon dioxide absorber, to every woman to plant.
programmes and projecTs in response To The pandemic
We distributed pamphlets in English, Afrikaans, and Xhosa, educating people about COVID-19, and demonstrated in a fun way how to safely sneeze and greet. I’m part of the Sisterhood Teen Girl project, where young teens have been actively involved in Ubuntu, registering people for the R350 grant. Some Ubuntu volunteers have been tracking the TERS [Temporary Employer-Employee Relief Scheme] fund monies, to make sure
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RURAL VOICE III: RESPONDING TO A PANDEMIC